(level 2 cache) A memory cache that is external to the CPU chip. Typically located on the motherboard, the L2 cache is also known as a "secondary cache." An L2 cache feeds the L1 cache. If the L2 cache is also contained on the CPU chip, then the external motherboard cache becomes the L3 cache. The L3 cache feeds the L2 cache, which feeds the L1 cache, which feeds the CPU.